Chennai: With Vinayaka Chaturthi being celebrated tomorrow, people like Srinivasan (47), are a busy lot.
The clay sculptor from Puducherry, believes that he should make hay while the sun shines.
Seated on the pavement of First Main Road in Srinivasapuram, Thiruvanmiyur, with a pile of clay, a mould and freshly created Ganesh idols lined up, Srinivasan shares his thoughts with News Today.
“I come to the city for 10 days every year, with an aim to sell 500 statues of the Lord. I can make one in 20 minutes,” he beams, while beginning to work on the clay and mould.
“I learnt this during my childhood. We have been in the business of clay modelling for three generations,” he explains.
While he is busy doing his magic on one-feet idols, his father P Veerappan who is also with him, is seen making half-feet deities.
One interesting aspect is that the duo does not colour or paint the idols.
“What we use is 100 per cent natural and organic clay, with no adverse effect on the environment,” he assures.
When he is not working on Vinayaka statues, Srinivasan does paper modelling, makes moulds and experiments on dyes and art.
“This is not easy,” he says even as he smears layers of clay on the two moulds and keeps it aside for them to set.
One of the main challenges, according to him, is to find a good location to set up a roadside shop.
“We sit and work in the sleepy interior roads, to avoid getting into a problem with the police. But on 1 and 2 September, we move few statues to the main road,” he states.
So what does he think about the festival?
“I am a firm believer of Vinayaka. I feel we all exist because of Him,” he signs off.
He can be reached at 93444 39022.